Mawuli MacDonald
Eagan,MN
Summary
Enthusiastic analytical chemist with 5+ years experience in method development, LC- MS/MS, troubleshooting, and sample preparation techniques from biological and environmental matrices. Adept at designing and executing experiments, documenting results, and synthesizing complex information into succinct summaries for presentation to diverse audiences. Ability to independently handle multiple projects simultaneously, as well as work collaboratively with other scientists. Proficient oral and written communication skills.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
Work History
Laboratory Technologist II
Valley Medical and Wellness
Burnsville, MN
07.2024 - Current
- Reviewed and documented test results according to laboratory standards.
- Performed quality control checks to ensure accuracy of test results before releasing them to physicians.
- Assisted in training new employees on laboratory techniques and safety procedures.
- Prepared reagents and solutions used in testing processes.
- Recorded data accurately into electronic medical records system.
- Organized lab reports for easy access by healthcare providers.
- Performed laboratory tests and analyses on human urine to detect and quantify drugs in body fluids.
- Provided technical support for colleagues regarding instrumentation issues or problems with sample preparation methods.
- Completed routine sample processing, validations and reagent QC runs.
- Identified and reported issues affecting test performance.
- Maintained and calibrated lab instruments and equipment to streamline use.
- Applied established policies and procedures to performed assays of biological specimens.
- Evaluated and assessed lab equipment to resolve malfunctions and restore functionality.
- Evaluated test system performance and corrected issues to address underperformance.
- Interpreted test results and determined need for retesting.
- Performed routine checks on sensitive lab equipment to achieve consistent and high-performing functionality.
- Analyzed experimental results and determined whether results fit within standard procedures.
- Used scientific method to assist colleagues and supervisors with experiments.
- Identified and fixed issues with lab equipment to achieve more accurate lab results.
- Examined experiment results to identify potential underlying causes for scientific findings.
- Reviewed experimental data to catch potential lab errors and correct mistakes.
- Conducted experiments with strict adherence to protocol guidelines.
- Maintained laboratory equipment by performing routine maintenance procedures; troubleshooting malfunctions; calling for repairs.
- Verified patient information against specimen labels prior to testing process.
Emergency Medical Technician
Paramedics Plus
Sioux Falls, SD
07.2016 - 06.2018
- Enhanced patient care by administering appropriate treatments based on thorough assessments of vital signs, physical conditions, and medical histories in high- pressure situations
- Increased team efficiency by collaborating with paramedics, firefighters, and other emergency personnel to provide seamless emergency care to patients
- Advanced patient comfort during transport by employing proper handling techniques and providing emotional support as needed
- Conducted equipment and vehicle checks to maintain continuous and safe operation
Undergraduate Research Assistant
Northwestern College Of Iowa
Orange City, IA
08.2014 - 12.2015
- Optimization of actin and tubulin loading controls for Nothobranchius furzeri
- Successfully ran gel electrophoresis
- Independently carried out Western Blot Procedure
- Presented novel research on the accumulation of alpha synuclein in N
- Furzeri to members of scientific community on campus
- Mastered histotechniques such as fixation, tissue processing, sectioning, staining and coverslipping
- Organized laboratory materials and maintained equipment for efficient daily operations
- Adhered to laboratory safety procedures to maintain compliance with quality control standards
Graduate Research Assistant
South Dakota State University
Brookings, SD
07.2018
- Development of a novel technique for the analysis of 2-nitrophenol in biological samples (tissue, blood, and plasma) as biomarkers for oxidative stress-related diseases
- Application of a novel technique for trace analysis of macrolide antibiotics in purified water (azithromycin, clarithromycin, and erythromycin)
- Analysis of PFAS in drinking water using solid-phase extraction gas- chromatography-mass spectrometry
- Ultratrace determination of neonicotinoid pesticides in surface water using ICECLES and liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry
- Ultratrace analysis of suite of bisphenols Bisphenol A, Bisphenol F, and Bisphenol S) via ICECLES and liquid-chromatography tandem mass spectrometry
- Synthesized, purified, and characterized small molecules for fluorometric determination of fluoride
- Participate actively in regular meetings with fellow researchers to discuss project updates, challenges faced, and lessons learned during ongoing activities
- Work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced laboratory environment
- Provide support, training, and guidance to junior graduate research assistants
- Operate and perform preventative maintenance on high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) instruments
- Troubleshoot and resolve equipment and process issues
- Maintain an up-to-date chemical inventory
- Order chemicals, lab equipment, and dispose of chemical wastes per EHS guidelines
Graduate Teaching Assistant
South Dakota State University
Brookings, SD
07.2018
- Taught freshman to junior college-level chemistry (general, organic, and biochemistry) courses for approximately 60 students per semester
- Supported instructors in grading exams and papers, maintaining accurate records of student performance throughout the semester
- Provided timely and constructive feedback on assignments, enabling students to refine their work and achieve higher grades
- Offered office hours and one-on-one meetings with students to provide additional support and guidance to students
- Assisted in the development of course materials, ensuring content was relevant and engaging for students
- Developed strong rapport with students through open communication channels, fostering an inclusive learning environment
- Served as a liaison between faculty members and students, addressing concerns and facilitating resolution of issues promptly
- Mentored new graduate teaching assistants, providing guidance on best practices and classroom management strategies
Education
Ph.D. - Chemistry
South Dakota State University
Brookings, SD05.2025
Bachelor of Arts - Chemistry
Northwestern College
Orange City, IA05.2016
Skills
- Liquid Chromatography [UHPLC/HPLC] and Mass Spectrometry [Sciex]
- Instrumentation [GC-MS, LC-MS/MS, FTIR, UV/Vis, Fluorimetry]
- Synthesis and characterization of small molecules [LLE, TLC, column chromatography, NMR]
- Sample Preparation [SPE, SBSE, ICECLES, LLE, PPT]
- Method Development and Validation
- Problem Solving and Troubleshooting
- Experiment Protocols and Research Design
- Building Relationships and Interpersonal communication skills
- Strong Work Ethic, Self-Directed and Motivated
- Lab Safety Procedures and Laboratory Testing
- Report Writing
- Academic Presentations
- Clinical chemistry
- Analytical testing
Accomplishments
- Logue Award for Academic Excellence in First-Year Graduate School-SDSU (2019)
- Outstanding poster presentation on the Ultratrace Analysis of Neonicotinoids in Surface Waters at the Eastern South Dakota Waters Conference in 2023.
Timeline
Laboratory Technologist II
Valley Medical and Wellness
07.2024 - Current
Graduate Research Assistant
South Dakota State University
07.2018
Graduate Teaching Assistant
South Dakota State University
07.2018
Emergency Medical Technician
Paramedics Plus
07.2016 - 06.2018
Undergraduate Research Assistant
Northwestern College Of Iowa
08.2014 - 12.2015
Ph.D. - Chemistry
South Dakota State University
Bachelor of Arts - Chemistry
Northwestern College
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